Midland Earns Double Friendly Texas Designations
June 5, 2026 | Austin, Texas | Press Release
AUSTIN – The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office within the Office of the Governor today announced the City of Midland has been designated as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community after completing both multi-step certification processes.
Administered by the Texas Music Office and Travel Texas, the Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas programs provide communities with training and tools to help spur local job creation and local economic expansion by promoting the growth of the music and tourism industries in Texas.
“Congratulations to the City of Midland on earning a simultaneous double designation as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “Texas partners with our communities and provides the tools and resources they need to attract new business investments, create good-paying jobs for Texans, draw visitors to every region of the state, and attract and retain a skilled workforce. I invite all Texas communities, large and small, to fully leverage the opportunities provided by all of our ‘Friendly Texas’ certified community programs.”
“West Texans have never been easy to put in a box,” said Senator Kevin Sparks. “Midland may be known for our energy resources, but our community has always been rich in music, art, and the kind of hospitality that turns visitors into friends. These designations recognize what residents and visitors already know: Midland is a place where people come together to create, experience, and share something meaningful. This achievement reflects the talent, hospitality, and entrepreneurial spirit that continue to shape our city's future.”
“I am excited for the City of Midland to join other West Texas cities in being recognized as both a Tourism Friendly Texas and Music Friendly Texas Certified Community," said Representative Tom Craddick. “Midland is the heartbeat of West Texas, and I hope more people will come spend time here! These designations will attract more visitors and businesses to the great city we all know as Midland.”
“Midland is proud to be recognized as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community,” said Midland Mayor Lori Blong. “These designations reflect the work already happening across our community to support artists, venues, events, and entertainment opportunities, while continuing to grow Midland as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. Midland has a strong tradition of local musical talent and community support for the arts, while also continuing to attract major touring acts and performances. Our West Texas hospitality shows up every day through the experiences we offer and the partnerships that continue to grow our community. Midland is proud to be a place people want to visit, and we look forward to welcoming even more visitors as a Music Friendly Texas and Tourism Friendly Texas community.”
“The City of Midland's designation as a Music Friendly Texas Certified Community is a meaningful recognition of the vital role live music plays in shaping our region’s identity and growth,” said Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center General Manager Stephanie Rivas. “As Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center celebrates 15 years of bringing live entertainment to the Permian Basin, we see the impact of live music every time someone steps into the venue. I’m proud to be part of a community that continues to celebrate the power of live entertainment.”
“Whether you’re visiting for sports tourism or business travel, or discovering family-friendly experiences, cultural attractions, and a vibrant downtown, Midland offers something for every interest,” said Midland Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Evan Thomas. “And we’re just getting started. Tourism is a powerful economic driver that benefits both our residents and our business community. Thank you to our Visit Midland team and our community and business partners for making this recognition as a Tourism Friendly Texas Certified Community possible.”
The Music Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony, cohosted by TMO and the City of Midland, will be held on Wednesday, June 10, at noon and will include city officials and community leaders. See details here. Learn more about the Music Friendly Texas program: gov.texas.gov/music/page/music-friendly-communities
The Tourism Friendly Texas Community Certification Ceremony, cohosted by Travel Texas, the City of Midland, and Visit Midland, will be held on Tuesday, June 16, at 10 am and will include city officials and community leaders. See details here. Learn more about the Tourism Friendly Texas program: gov.texas.gov/travel-texas/tourism-friendly-texas
The Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office (EDT) within the Office of the Governor is tasked with marketing and promoting the state of Texas across the nation and around the world as the premier business location and travel destination. EDT works closely with communities and local, regional, and statewide economic development and tourism organizations, as well as partnering state agencies, to ensure Texas remains the best place to live, work, and visit.
Media inquiries should be directed to the Governor’s Press Office at (512) 463-1826.